International consensus for neuroblastoma molecular diagnostics: report from the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) Biology Committee

• DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6605014
• Publication Date: 2009-04-28T22:50:40Z
• Authors: P F Ambros; I M Ambros; G M Brodeur; M Haber; J Khan; A Nakagawara; G Schleiermacher; F Speleman; R Spitz; W B London; S L Cohn; A D J Pearson; J M Maris
• Keywords: Consensus conference; Task group

Neuroblastoma serves as a paradigm for utilising tumour genomic data determining patient prognosis and treatment allocation. However, before the establishment of International Risk Group (INRG) Task Force in 2004, international consensus on markers, methodology, interpretation did not exist, compromising reliability decisive genetic markers inhibiting translational research efforts. The objectives INRG Biology Committee were to identify highly prognostic aberrations be included new risk classification schema develop precise definitions, biomarkers, technique standardisation. review database (n=8800 patients) by finally enabled identification most significant neuroblastoma biomarkers. In addition, compared standard operating procedures different cooperative groups arrive at nomenclature, future directions. Consensus was reached include MYCN status, 11q23 allelic ploidy system basis an evidence-based database. Standardised analysing these factors adopted, criteria proper nomenclature developed. planning is dependant cell features, it likely that comprehensive panel DNA-based biomarkers will used assignment algorithms applying genome-wide techniques. methodology essential uniform greatly facilitate clinical studies.